Western Exploration Inc. (TSXV: WEX | OTCQX: WEXPF) announced on October 29, 2026, the completion of Phase I of its hydrogeologic investigation and all baseline study field work at its 100%-owned Doby George gold project in Elko County, Nevada. These milestones advance the permitting record supporting the company's Mine Plan of Operations, which was submitted to the U.S. Forest Service in August 2026. Investors may be watching this development closely as hydrogeological data is described in the release as a key input to Doby George's pre-feasibility study.

Key Points

  • Western Exploration Inc. (TSXV: WEX | OTCQX: WEXPF) is a Nevada-focused gold and silver developer advancing its Aura project
  • Phase I hydrogeologic investigation completed, with seven drill holes packer tested and piezometers installed for ongoing groundwater monitoring
  • All baseline study field work is complete; reports are being finalised for submission to the U.S. Forest Service
  • Investors should watch for assay results from the 2026 drill program, the Phase I Baseline Hydrogeologic Report, and the Power Study expected by mid-December 2026

Phase I Hydrology Completed at Doby George as USFS Permitting Advances

The Phase I hydrogeologic investigation included the completion and packer testing of seven drill holes, along with the installation of piezometers to provide continual groundwater monitoring. The Phase I Baseline Hydrogeologic Report is currently in preparation. A Phase II hydrogeologic investigation is planned for 2027. The release states that hydrogeological data is a key input both to the company's pre-feasibility study and to the U.S. Forest Service's review of the Mine Plan of Operations submitted in August 2026.

Baseline Studies, Air Quality, and Geochemistry Work Progressing in Parallel

All field work for the broader baseline studies has been completed, with reports being finalised for submission to the U.S. Forest Service. Air quality and emissions studies are also being finalised. Geochemical characterisation of mineralised material and waste rock, column leach test work, and metallurgical test work are all underway using material from the 2026 drill program. Assay results from that drill program remain pending and the company states they will be released as received.

Electrical Feasibility Study on Schedule for Mid-December 2026 Completion

A power feasibility study being completed by Raft River Rural Electric Co-operative, originally announced in June 2026, is described as nearing completion and on schedule for delivery by mid-December 2026. The study pertains to grid power access for the Doby George project. CEO Darcy Marud noted in the release that the field season was designed around permitting requirements, and that the company continues to work closely with the U.S. Forest Service through the permitting process.